No matter where or how it happens, getting hurt in a bicycle crash can be a harrowing and potentially traumatizing experience, and those effects could worsen if someone else was completely at fault for causing your crash. Either way, though, it is crucial to remain as calm and proactive as possible in the aftermath of a bike wreck, not only to protect yourself physically but also to preserve your chances of successfully seeking civil compensation.
Our seasoned bicycle accident attorneys here at Largey Law Firm have years of experience helping people like you through similar situations. We know all the innocent mistakes people sometimes make after wrecks that could harm them in the long run. With that in mind, here is our advice about what to do after a bicycle accident in Inverness so you can give yourself the best possible chances of long-term recovery.
Move Out of the Flow of Traffic if Possible
If you suffer any kind of injury after a bicycle crash in Inverness that may have debilitating or life-threatening consequences, the first and only thing you should do is call 911 and get emergency medical treatment. However, if you do not need urgent medical care, prioritize moving yourself and your bicycle away from active traffic lanes or bike paths to avoid the risk of another vehicle or rider hitting you.
Get Contact and Insurance Information From Everyone Present
Once you are out of immediate danger, your next step following an Inverness bike crash should be speaking with everyone else directly involved in the collision and exchanging contact details as well as insurance information. It can also help to obtain contact information from witnesses who did not participate in the accident, as they may provide eyewitness testimony during a subsequent civil claim.
Should You Stay at the Scene Until Police Arrive?
If you have a motor vehicle collision while you are on your bike in Inverness, calling 911 and summoning police to the scene can be a very productive next step for numerous reasons. In addition to securing official statements from involved parties and witnesses, the police will also generate an accident report detailing what they believe happened and who they think is at fault for the accident, which you can later use as evidence to support an insurance claim or civil lawsuit.
Get a Professional Medical Exam as Soon as Possible
Finally, getting a medical examination from your primary care physician or visiting an urgent care clinic should be a top priority as soon as you leave the scene of a bike accident in Inverness. Even if you feel fine immediately afterwards, getting an exam will help identify more subtle forms of trauma that may produce serious symptoms later on. This will be key to seeking the right amount of compensation for all your crash-related losses, rather than just the ones that were immediately apparent.
Speak to An Inverness Attorney To Learn What To Do After a Bicycle Accident
Anyone who thinks it is easy to stay calm immediately after a roadway accident has very likely never experienced one. However, if you know in advance what to do after a bicycle accident in Inverness, you will be better equipped to proactively handle the aftermath and enforce your right to civil recovery.
One of our bicycle accident lawyers from Largey Law Firm could guide you through every step of the legal process and work personally with you to ensure your case resolves as favorably for you as possible. Call today to set up a consultation and discuss your potential case.
